Noble Denton, consultants to the offshore industries, has announced that it has established modern STS facilities in the United Arab Emirates. The new base will provide a range of Ship to Ship Transfer Services in the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. The Ship to Ship transfers will take place primarily outside port limits. The transfer of cargo can take place either at anchor or when both ships are steaming or drifting freely with the current and prevailing weather.

STS transfers are normally required for operational reasons but can also be driven by other factors such the distress of one vessel, political constraints or for financial reasons. The transfer of cargo takes place through large diameter hoses while heavy-duty fenders are moored as-buffers-between the vessels. The nature of the operations is highly specialised and can be high risk if not performed by skilled individuals using suitable well-maintained equipment. Noble Denton backed by a staff of skilled Mooring Masters and Pilots, provide the personnel and direction for the new STS team. The equipment provided will be managed and maintained by Fujairah Marine Services and Trading who, with their joint venture partner ProTec Fendering Systems, bring together over 50 years of marine knowledge and in-depth operational experience.